Shaping the Circle

EXPLORE:
People

John P. Frenzel II (1855-1933) once worked as a messenger boy for the Merchants National Bank, and years later he became the bank's president. He was also a great patron of the arts in Indianapolis. He supported the Maennerchor by arranging for famous musicians to appear with the group as guest performers. When a new hall was built for the Maennerchor in 1907, his money was largely responsible.

Frenzel played many important roles in Indianapolis society. He was a member of the Indianapolis school board and supported the introduction of physical education into the schools. He served as the treasurer of both the North American Saengerbund and the Indianapolis Anti-Prohibition League. He was himself a talented musician, and he and his wife performed several operas with the Maennerchor.